International Office
Community Friends

Mission Statement:

Wabash Community Friends is a volunteer organization designed to help each International Student at Wabash College to develop quality friendships with at least one American family. This program is a cooperative effort between The International Student Office, Wabash College, the student, and his community family. The program is led by a group of local community leaders working with David Clapp, Director of the International Office. The members of this year's leadership board are Professor Cheryl Hughes, Brad and Sue Mullendore, Dr. Kathy Steele, Superintendent of Crawfordsville Schools, Professor Bob Foote, and Crawfordsville Mayor Todd Barton. All of this group have been active with International Students at Wabash College for many years and invite other families to join them in hosting students.

All participants must respect each other at all times. No attempts should be made to change anyone's beliefs through participation in the program. We do however, encourage honest discussions on all topics to help create understanding between different cultures and groups of people. Also, the friendship program is not a housing program, nor are there any expectations of financial support for the student.

We would like for this program to be helpful and meaningful for the students and our families. It is vital to our mission to have a vibrant program with community families interacting with international students.

We have lots of ideas and hope you enjoy being a part of this effort. One idea is having carry-in dinners where we get together to interact, share each others’ talents, experiences, and food! Individual families can choose to include their student in cookouts, excursions, sporting events or organization gatherings.

During the summer families will be assigned to the new international students and plans made for the coming academic year. Please return to this site for details.

Both of the above awards are competitive, and require prior approval to study off-campus. Please contact The International Office in the International Center for details regarding both awards and the application procedures